How Can You Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing in Winter?

Winter in Minnesota can be brutally cold, and with temperatures often plunging well below freezing, one of the most common — and costly — household issues homeowners face is frozen pipes.

When water inside your plumbing system freezes, it expands, putting pressure on the pipes and increasing the risk of cracks or bursts. This can lead to extensive water damage and expensive repairs. Knowing how to prevent your pipes from freezing isn’t just helpful — it’s essential for maintaining the safety and efficiency of your home through the colder months.

At Onyx Plumbing & Gas, we understand the unique challenges that Minnesota winters present. From hidden crawlspaces to exterior walls that lose heat quickly, your home may have more vulnerable plumbing than you realize. That’s why this guide explores how cold it has to be before pipes start freezing, identifies which pipes are most at risk, and provides practical advice for thawing frozen pipes safely. 

Whether you're a new homeowner or a seasoned Minnesotan, knowing the risks and how to mitigate them is key to protecting your home. Keep reading to learn essential tips — including professional-level insights — to safeguard your plumbing this winter!

Understanding the Temperature Threshold for Frozen Pipes

Water begins to freeze at 32°F (0°C), but your home's pipes typically face serious risk when temperatures drop to 20°F (-6°C) or below. At this threshold, especially in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages, pipes can freeze within hours. The danger intensifies when cold air is able to reach the plumbing directly through cracks, vents, or insufficient insulation. Even interior pipes along poorly insulated exterior walls are not immune when temperatures plunge.

Understanding the physics helps: when water freezes, it expands by about 9%. This expansion generates immense pressure inside the pipe, leading to ruptures, not always at the frozen spot, but often further along the line. Pipes made of copper, steel, and even PEX can be affected, though copper and rigid PVC are particularly vulnerable due to their lower flexibility. Homeowners should monitor weather forecasts closely and take proactive measures when temperatures are predicted to dip into the danger zone.

Beyond the ambient air temperature, wind chill and indoor heating patterns also play a role. For example, closing interior doors or blocking vents can cause certain rooms to become colder, placing pipes within walls at higher risk. Regular inspections and preventive strategies — especially during cold snaps — can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major plumbing emergency. 

Identifying Vulnerable Pipes in Minnesota Homes

Minnesota homes are uniquely challenged by prolonged sub-zero temperatures and shifting soil conditions. Pipes most vulnerable to freezing are typically those in unheated or poorly insulated areas. This includes pipes in basements, crawl spaces, garages, and attics, but also those located inside exterior walls, especially on the north side of homes. In older homes, where insulation may be lacking or deteriorated, pipes behind cabinets or in utility closets without direct heat exposure are also at increased risk.

Galvanized steel and copper pipes are common in many Minneapolis-area homes and are more prone to freezing than newer cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) piping due to their rigidity. In addition, outdoor spigots and sprinkler system lines are extremely susceptible unless properly winterized. Homeowners should pay special attention to pipe runs that pass through areas with venting or drafts. A single gap or crack allowing in cold air can be enough to initiate a freeze within a few hours.

To mitigate these risks, consider pipe rerouting, improved insulation, or installation of heat cables. Identifying which pipes are most at risk is a crucial step in designing a long-term freeze prevention strategy. 

Safe Methods for Thawing Frozen Pipes

If you suspect a pipe has frozen, the first step is to shut off the main water supply to prevent flooding in the event the pipe has already burst. Next, determine the frozen section by checking exposed piping for frost, bulging, or lack of water flow from faucets. Once identified, the goal is to apply heat gradually. Do not use open flames or high-intensity heaters — this is not only dangerous but could cause pipe damage or fire.

Safe thawing methods include using a hair dryer, space heater, or warm towels soaked in hot water. Apply the heat source at the faucet end of the pipe and work backward, which helps melt the water and allows it to escape safely. For pipes behind walls, increase the ambient room temperature or use an infrared lamp directed at the wall surface. In some cases, cutting an access panel may be necessary to reach the pipe safely.

Patience is key during this process. Thawing too quickly can exacerbate pressure buildup or cause cracking. If you're unsure of the pipe’s condition or can’t reach the frozen area, it’s best to contact a licensed professional. 

The Role of Dripping Faucets in Preventing Frozen Pipes

Leaving faucets dripping overnight during freezing temperatures can help prevent frozen pipes by keeping water moving through the system. A slow, steady drip relieves pressure buildup and makes it more difficult for water to freeze within the pipe. This method is particularly helpful for fixtures connected to pipes in unheated or exterior wall areas, where freezing risk is elevated.

The science behind it is simple: moving water takes longer to freeze than stagnant water. Even a slight flow can maintain water movement, lowering the chances of ice formation. Additionally, allowing warm water to drip — if available — is even more effective than cold, especially when you alternate hot and cold taps. Homeowners should also open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

While this method may increase your water bill slightly, the cost is minimal compared to the expense of repairing burst pipes and water damage. This preventive tactic, while not foolproof, is a practical and low-cost option during short-term cold spells. However, it’s not a replacement for more permanent insulation and pipe protection measures.

Implementing Long-Term Strategies to Prevent Frozen Pipes

To reduce the risk of frozen pipes year after year, homeowners should invest in long-term protective solutions. Proper insulation is one of the most effective strategies — this includes adding foam pipe sleeves, heat tape, or fiberglass wrap to pipes in vulnerable areas. For newly built or remodeled homes, installing pipes away from exterior walls or below frost lines can significantly reduce exposure to freezing conditions.

Upgrading your home's insulation and sealing cracks or drafts near pipe locations also plays a major role in freeze prevention. Weather stripping doors and windows, insulating attics and crawl spaces, and ensuring your furnace maintains consistent heat throughout the house — even in less-used areas — are key elements of a cold-weather defense plan. Smart thermostats and leak detection systems can provide added layers of monitoring and control during extreme weather events.

In homes with recurring freezing issues, re-piping or installing dedicated pipe heating systems may be necessary. Consulting with experienced professionals like Onyx Plumbing & Gas can help identify weak points in your plumbing and recommend tailored solutions to prevent future freeze-related damage. Planning ahead and implementing these upgrades can save you thousands in emergency repairs and give you peace of mind throughout the winter!

Protect Your Home with Expert Plumbing Solutions

Now that you understand the risks and preventative strategies related to frozen pipes, the next step is making sure your home is ready for winter. At Onyx Plumbing & Gas, we specialize in protecting Minnesota homes from extreme cold. Whether it's inspecting vulnerable pipes, upgrading your home’s water lines, or providing emergency plumbing support, our team is trained to handle seasonal challenges with care and efficiency.

To book a consultation or schedule service, visit our schedule an online service page or call us at (612) 234-6699, and we’ll walk you through your options with no pressure — just honest advice and quality solutions!